Anambra Gov Soludo bans loud preaching in markets, imposes N500k fine on defaulters

In a bid to curtail noise pollution,
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has banned loud preaching in markets across the state with a N500,000 fine imposed on defaulters.

While pronouncing the ban during a visit to the popular Ochanja Market in Onitsha, Soludo said the act of roadside preachers who invade markets with blaring loudspeakers, disrupting business activities and causing unbearable noise pollution would no longer be condoned.

In a video shared on his verified X handle on Saturday, the governor was seen confronting a street preacher at the market, ordering him to cease his activities immediately.

“If you want to preach the word of God, go to your church. You are causing noise pollution here. You cannot come to a marketplace and disturb everyone,” the governor said in the video.

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Not done with the street preacher, Soludo also addressed traders and passersby and made it clear that the days of uncontrolled street evangelism in the state were over.

“This is a marketplace, not a church! You cannot take over a public space and turn it into a place of worship. Otherwise, you will pay for it. You will pay N500,000 because we cannot allow this anymore,” Soludo stressed.

“If you want to preach, go to a church. Those who want to listen will come to you; you cannot force people in the market to hear your message. You are violating the law.

“We are cracking down on fake pastors and prophets in Anambra. We have banned loudspeakers in markets due to noise pollution, which is affecting people’s eardrums. You cannot force people to listen to your preaching,” he added as the crowd cheered and jubilated in ecstasy.

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